The points of issue
First Doubleday hardcover with 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page; brown paper-covered boards over black spine cloth lettered in gilt; price present on the front jacket flap. Larry Schwinger jacket art.
Is this the true first?
The US Doubleday hardcover is the true first, preceding the 1988 Beacon Press reissue and all paperbacks. The stated 'First Edition' line is the key point.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
The Science Fiction Book Club edition carries an unpriced 'Book Club Edition' jacket and a small blindstamp on the lower corner of the rear board, with thinner boards; it lacks the priced jacket of the trade first.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Kindred a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: First Doubleday hardcover with 'First Edition' stated on the copyright page; brown paper-covered boards over black spine cloth lettered in gilt; price present on the front jacket flap. Larry Schwinger jacket art.
How do I tell the first printing from a later one?
Check the copyright page for the publisher's first-printing convention and confirm the points above. The US Doubleday hardcover is the true first, preceding the 1988 Beacon Press reissue and all paperbacks. The stated 'First Edition' line is the key point.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
The Science Fiction Book Club edition carries an unpriced 'Book Club Edition' jacket and a small blindstamp on the lower corner of the rear board, with thinner boards; it lacks the priced jacket of the trade first.
I have a first edition of Kindred — what should I do?
If you're clearing books, New Mexico Literacy Project offers free pickup in Albuquerque, any condition, and makes sure collectible copies aren't lost. To sell, see the author's collecting guide. Either way, nothing valuable ends up in a landfill.